The Catholic Church’s Political Influence in Benin: A Controversial Legacy

The Catholic Church in Benin commemorated 35 years since the 1990 National Conference, reflecting on the nation’s democratic decline and the church’s waning influence. Participants expressed mixed feelings about progress made in democracy, citing a shift from a robust political presence to one of diminished authority. Current leaders’ lack of respect for the Church’s guidance has worsened the situation, echoing concerns raised during recent synodal consultations.

The Catholic Church in Benin commemorated the 35th anniversary of the 1990 National Conference, amidst concerns regarding the current state of democracy and the church’s political influence. The late Archbishop Isidore de Souza, who led the conference, is still widely regarded as the architect of the nation’s democratic transition from an authoritarian regime to a multiparty system. The commemoration included a solemn Mass followed by a colloquium aimed at reflecting on and reinforcing the Church’s commitment to democratic values.

At the colloquium, various participants assessed the state of democracy in Benin after 35 years. Alain Adihou, who represented Catholic youth during the conference, expressed mixed feelings, noting concerns about the political elite’s ability to uphold democratic principles established at the conference. He lamented the failure to effectively implement these principles, resulting in a resurgence of past issues.

Another attendee, Robert Dossou, echoed similar sentiments, advising that while he would participate in the conference again, he currently perceives a decline in democratic integrity, stating, “Today, I don’t think we have democracy anymore. We have a multi-polar one-party system.” Observers pointed out that Benin, once a democratic model in Africa, has experienced restrictions on civil liberties and political dissent, evident in the incarceration of opposition figures.

The participants also raised concerns about the diminishing political influence of the Catholic Church in Benin. Jacques Tossavi noted a stark contrast in the church’s perceived authority, stating that the current government does not regard the bishops with the same reverence as before. This shift in respect is attributed to the values of past leadership, exemplified by Gen. Mathieu Kérékou, which are now seemingly absent in contemporary governance.

Moreover, during the recent consultations for the Synod on Synodality, participants indicated a need for improvement in the Church’s socio-political engagement, given the perceived neglect of its proposals by political authorities in recent times. The Church’s historical role in shaping political discourse has faced scrutiny as its influence continues to wane in the current political climate.

In summary, the Catholic Church in Benin faces significant challenges in asserting its political voice amid an evolving and restrictive political landscape. The reflections from the recent anniversary of the National Conference highlight both the historical significance of the Church’s role in democracy and the contemporary difficulties it encounters. As internal and external pressures shape the political discourse, the Church’s commitment to advocacy for democratic values remains vital yet increasingly complicated.

Original Source: international.la-croix.com